Manchester United goalkeeper, Andre Onana has ended international retirement and returned to Cameroon national team after a disagreement with coach Rigobert Song.
Andre Onana was sent home from the Cameroon national team’s World Cup camp in Qatar due to disciplinary reasons.
According to reports, he was named in the squad for the upcoming AFCON qualifier against Burundi on September 12, 2023, in Garoua.
In a statement confirming his return, Onana expressed his unwavering desire to represent Cameroon.
The statement was shared on his social media handle, “In the world of football, just like in life, defining moments arise, requiring crucial choices. In recent months, I have been confronted with trials marked by injustice and manipulation. However, my unwavering love and attachment to my homeland, Cameroon, remains intact.”
“My desire to represent my country has never wavered since my youth, and this aspiration remains an inseparable part of my identity. Nothing and no one can shake this conviction. I respond to the call of my nation with unwavering certainty, aware that my return is not only intended to honor my dream but also to respond to the expectation and support of Cameroonians, who deserve a national team determined to shine,” he added.
Onana did not disclose the full reasons for his departure from the Cameroon national team during the FIFA World Cup in Qatar but cited injustice and manipulation as factors in his decision to leave.
“Faced with manipulation, lies, and abuse of power, I choose to remain faithful to my ideal, proudly representing a country that deserves our sincere commitment. This is the time to unite, to work in harmony for our common good: Cameroon,” he continued.
“I would like to salute the government which is working tirelessly to build a Cameroon better and for all.”
“My deepest thoughts go to the Cameroonian people to whom I say thank you very much for their support and whom I look forward to seeing again.
“Time, the infallible judge of all things, will ultimately enlighten us and reveal the correctness of our actions. My commitment to Cameroon remains unwavering, and I am determined to play my part to see it prosper.”
“So see you on September 12 in Garoua for our qualification for the next African Football Cup of Nations.”